The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has today announced that Emirati Sheikh Mohammed Bin Maktoum Bin Juma Al Maktoum has joined its global ownership group.

The mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion said the addition “strengthens PFL’s commitment to expanding its presence in the Middle East and supporting the growth of MMA across the UAE and the region.”

Sheikh Mohammed is the founding chairman of Alpha MBM Investments, a diversified investment company based in Dubai with interests across real estate, technology, energy, and sports.

The PFL has already developed a significant presence in the Middle East region, launching its PFL MENA league, which is currently in its second season.

The series also became the first global MMA organization to stage a major event in Dubai earlier this year with the Champions Series tournament in January.

Peter Murray, CEO of PFL International, said: “PFL is excited to welcome Sheikh Mohammed and his expertise to our ownership group. This marks another major milestone in our global expansion strategy and reinforces our long-term commitment to expanding our presence in the Middle East.”

Murray is now responsible for overseeing the PFL’s international business after recently transitioning to CEO of the arm.

John Martin was hired earlier this month to replace him as chief executive of the wider PFL organization. Murray will report directly to Martin in this expanded global structure.